Spring Independent School District, Houston

Health, training and large kitchens highlighted our visit to Spring.

Late last year FSD had the chance to visit Melanie Konarik, director of child nutrition for the Spring Independent School District in Houston. Spring ISD, the 2008 District of the Year award recipient from the School Nutrition Association, has made great strides to make its menus healthier and student friendly, to train its staff, and design engaging and inviting dining spaces. Here’s a look at what the district has been up to.

When FSD visited, Konarik and her staff had recently moved into a brand new facility for the child nutrition department. One of the highlights of the building is the new training kitchen, where newly hired employees learn how to prepare the district’s recipes.

City officials are weighing changes to school menus less than one year after earlier changes drew parent criticism. Officials say those menu changes were not final, and an advisory board is suggesting healthier, fresher dishes and a more expansive in-class breakfast program.